The Art of Piano Playing: Insights from Jazz Legend Oscar Peterson

TLDRLearn about the unique piano playing styles of jazz legend Oscar Peterson, including stride piano and two-fingered percussiveness. Discover the influences that shaped his music, such as Art Tatum and Nat Cole. Explore his use of double-handed melodies and tonality-based playing. Get a glimpse into his singing abilities and enjoy a cocktail piano performance.

Key insights

:musical_keyboard:Oscar Peterson's stride piano style involves playing the background and melody simultaneously, creating a rhythmic effect.

:drum:Two-fingered percussiveness, inspired by Nat Cole, gives each note its own articulation and adds emphasis to the melody.

:musical_score:Oscar Peterson's double-handed melodies involve playing the same line with both hands, creating a unique sound on the piano.

:musical_note:Tonality-based playing allows Oscar Peterson to explore alternative harmonies and create intricate arrangements.

:microphone:Although primarily known as a pianist, Oscar Peterson had a singing ability that resembled a well-known singer, although he didn't reveal who.

Q&A

What is stride piano?

Stride piano is a style where the pianist plays the bass line, chords, and melody simultaneously, creating a rhythmic effect.

What is two-fingered percussiveness?

Two-fingered percussiveness is a piano technique where each note has its own articulation, adding emphasis to the melody. It was inspired by Nat Cole's playing.

What are double-handed melodies?

Double-handed melodies involve playing the same line with both hands on the piano, creating a unique and full sound.

What is tonality-based playing?

Tonality-based playing involves exploring alternative harmonies and different chord structures to create intricate and expressive piano arrangements.

Was Oscar Peterson a singer as well?

Yes, Oscar Peterson had a singing ability that resembled a well-known singer, although he didn't disclose who.

Timestamped Summary

00:05Oscar Peterson demonstrates stride piano, playing the background and melody simultaneously.

00:17He showcases two-fingered percussiveness, inspired by Nat Cole, to add impact to the melody.

00:31Oscar Peterson explains his use of double-handed melodies, playing the same line with both hands.

00:39He discusses tonality-based playing, exploring alternative harmonies and chord structures.

00:49The video hints at Oscar Peterson's singing ability that resembles a famous singer.

04:55Oscar Peterson performs a cocktail piano rendition, showcasing his talent on the keys.

06:33The video concludes with a captivating piano performance by Oscar Peterson.